Top Actresses of African Descent

Actresses of African descent are making a huge impact on storytelling around the world, from Hollywood to growing film scenes in Africa and among the African diaspora. They excel in all kinds of roles – from serious dramas and big-budget movies to innovative TV shows and celebrated stage productions. Many are also taking control behind the scenes, creating, producing, and championing more opportunities for themselves and others. This list highlights twenty talented performers whose work truly speaks for itself.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is one of the few people to achieve an EGOT – winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award. She’s known for her powerful work in movies like ‘Fences’ and ‘The Woman King,’ as well as her leading role in the popular TV series ‘How to Get Away with Murder.’ Beyond acting, Davis is a producer who champions diverse stories and new voices through her production company, JuVee Productions. She’s also shared her inspiring life story in a widely-read memoir, detailing her journey from humble beginnings in Rhode Island to becoming an internationally celebrated actress.

Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o, who was born in Mexico and grew up in Kenya, quickly gained recognition as an actress with award-winning performances in films like ’12 Years a Slave’. She’s known for her roles as Nakia in the ‘Black Panther’ movies and as the lead in the hit thriller ‘Us’. Beyond acting, Nyong’o is a passionate advocate for arts education and protecting wildlife. She’s also a bestselling author, having written a children’s book that promotes self-love and inclusivity.

Angela Bassett

Angela Bassett is celebrated for her ability to completely embody real-life figures and for starring in popular, large-scale film series. She’s well-known for movies like ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ and the ‘Black Panther’ films, as well as the TV show ‘9-1-1’. Throughout her career, Bassett has earned numerous awards, including several lifetime achievement honors. She also often works as a producer and narrator on documentaries that showcase Black history and culture.

Regina King

Regina King is a highly respected actor and director, recognized with an Academy Award. She’s known for her performances in popular shows and films like ‘If Beale Street Could Talk,’ ‘Watchmen,’ and ‘The Leftovers.’ She’s also a director, having helmed ‘One Night in Miami…’ and episodes of series such as ‘Scandal’ and ‘Insecure.’ Beyond her creative work, King is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, supporting women and people of color in the entertainment industry.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is a highly celebrated actress known for her roles in films like ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ and the popular TV show ‘Empire’. She gained further recognition for her performance in ‘Hidden Figures’, which told the inspiring story of the women mathematicians at NASA. Beyond acting, Henson is dedicated to mental health advocacy and founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation to increase access to care in communities that need it most. She’s also a producer and writer who focuses on themes of empowerment and well-being.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington is a well-known actress who gained international fame for her role in the TV show ‘Scandal’ and later appeared in ‘Little Fires Everywhere’. She’s also been in several films, including ‘Django Unchained’, ‘Ray’, and ‘The School for Good and Evil’. Beyond acting, Washington is a producer through her company, Simpson Street, focusing on compelling, character-focused stories in various media. She’s also dedicated to encouraging people to vote and supporting arts education.

Danai Gurira

Danai Gurira is a talented actress and playwright originally from Zimbabwe. She’s well-known for her roles as Okoye in the ‘Black Panther’ movies and Michonne in ‘The Walking Dead.’ Her play, ‘Eclipsed,’ was a Broadway hit featuring an all-African female cast and won several awards. Gurira also works as a UN Goodwill Ambassador and helps run organizations that support education and health for girls in Africa.

Letitia Wright

Letitia Wright became internationally known for her role as Shuri in the ‘Black Panther’ movies. She’s also received praise for her work in series like ‘Black Mirror’ and the ‘Small Axe’ films. Wright started her own production company, 3.16 Productions, to create impactful stories with a diverse group of filmmakers and artists. She’s committed to supporting up-and-coming talent and works with programs in both Guyana and the UK.

Michaela Coel

Michaela Coel is a highly acclaimed writer, actress, and poet. She became well-known for her comedy series ‘Chewing Gum’ and later appeared in ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. Coel achieved major success with her powerful and innovative series ‘I May Destroy You’, which won numerous awards. Beyond her acting work, she’s a strong voice for creators’ rights, pushing for fair contracts and ownership in the television industry, and frequently speaks about the importance of creative freedom and diverse representation.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw

Gugu Mbatha-Raw is a celebrated actress known for her roles in films like ‘Belle’ and ‘Beyond the Lights’. She’s also appeared in popular TV series including ‘Loki’ and ‘Surface’, working on projects in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Beyond her acting career, Mbatha-Raw serves as a UN Goodwill Ambassador, advocating for refugees, and champions arts initiatives that help young, diverse performers gain opportunities.

Naomie Harris

Naomie Harris is a versatile actress who has appeared in both critically acclaimed independent films and blockbuster franchises like the James Bond series, including ‘Skyfall’ and ‘No Time to Die’. She also played a role in ‘Moonlight’ and ‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’. Recognized for her contributions to acting, she was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire. Beyond her acting career, Harris actively supports programs promoting literacy and environmental protection in the UK and the Caribbean.

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo is an award-winning performer – she’s won a Tony, Emmy, and Grammy – who’s successfully moved from theater to leading roles in movies. She’s known for her powerful performance as Harriet Tubman in the film ‘Harriet,’ and has also appeared in ‘Widows’ and ‘Chaos Walking.’ Beyond acting, Erivo is a talented musician who writes her own songs and contributes to movie soundtracks. Currently, she’s starring in the new film version of ‘The Color Purple’ and is also working behind the scenes as a producer.

Uzo Aduba

I’ve been such a fan of Uzo Aduba ever since ‘Orange Is the New Black’ – she truly blew me away and deserved all the accolades she received! It’s been incredible watching her take on leading roles in powerful series like ‘Mrs. America’ and ‘Painkiller’. Beyond her talent, I really admire her dedication to important causes. She’s a passionate voice for mental health and for supporting immigrant communities, and she actively works with groups that provide arts education and scholarships. She’s a genuinely inspiring person.

Thuso Mbedu

Thuso Mbedu, a South African actress, gained worldwide attention for her performance in ‘The Underground Railroad’. She followed this with a role in ‘The Woman King’, continuing her trend of playing strong characters in historical and action-packed stories. Mbedu received her training in Johannesburg and has been recognized with major television awards in Africa. She’s also dedicated to supporting up-and-coming actors and filmmakers through mentorship programs.

Jodie Turner-Smith

Jodie Turner-Smith first gained recognition for her role in the film ‘Queen & Slim.’ Since then, she’s taken on challenging roles in television, including playing Anne Boleyn. She successfully combines high-profile work in fashion and film with more artistic, independent projects. Additionally, she’s an advocate for Black maternal health and overall women’s wellness, actively participating in related campaigns.

Zoe Saldaña

Zoe Saldaña is a leading actress in some of the most successful movie franchises ever made, including ‘Avatar’, ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’, and ‘Star Trek’. Beyond acting, she also runs a digital media company that focuses on stories from Latinx and diverse cultures. She’s a strong supporter of programs that help young people in the Americas with science, technology, engineering, math, and the arts.

Genevieve Nnaji

Genevieve Nnaji is a leading figure in Nollywood, with a long and successful career in film. She not only acted in hundreds of movies but also took on roles behind the camera, producing and directing the acclaimed film ‘Lionheart,’ which was seen around the world. Recognized with major African film awards, Nnaji has also ventured into fashion and charitable work. She’s largely responsible for helping to improve and promote Nigeria’s film industry on an international stage.

Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde

Omotola Jalade Ekeinde is a leading star in Nollywood, famous for popular films like ‘Ije’ and ‘Last Flight to Abuja’. She’s successfully expanded her career beyond acting into music, reality TV, and giving back to the community. Omotola is also a dedicated advocate for important causes, particularly those supporting young people and mothers’ health, and has been celebrated as a cultural icon in Africa.

Sophie Okonedo

I’ve always been captivated by Sophie Okonedo’s work. From the powerful performances in films like ‘Hotel Rwanda’ and ‘Ratched,’ to her appearances in ‘Doctor Who,’ she’s incredibly versatile. But it’s her stage presence that truly shines – she’s won major awards for her work both in London’s West End and on Broadway! What I admire most is how seamlessly she moves between film, television, and the theatre, always bringing a depth and sophistication to every role. And it’s wonderful that she also uses her voice to narrate audiobooks and documentaries that share important stories about African and diaspora histories.

Yvonne Orji

Yvonne Orji is a Nigerian-American actress and comedian who gained fame for her role in the TV show ‘Insecure’. She performs stand-up comedy around the world and has a special focusing on themes of identity and faith. In addition to her performing career, Orji is a bestselling author, writing about personal development and staying creative through challenges. She’s also passionate about supporting new businesses and educational programs in both Nigeria and the United States.

Halle Berry

I’m a huge Halle Berry fan, and it’s amazing to think she made history as the first Black woman to win Best Actress for ‘Monster’s Ball’! Beyond that incredible achievement, she’s just been everywhere – leading the ‘X-Men’ films and kicking butt in action movies like ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’. But she doesn’t just perform, she’s a creative force behind the camera too, producing films and even directing her own movie, ‘Bruised’, which is a really powerful story. And if all that wasn’t enough, she’s also dedicated to important causes like health awareness and helping those affected by domestic violence. She’s truly inspiring!

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer is an Academy Award-winning actress, known for her role in ‘The Help’ and later recognized with nominations for ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘The Shape of Water’. She’s also starred in and led television series like ‘Truth Be Told’ and ‘Self Made’. Beyond acting, Spencer runs a production company dedicated to telling diverse and inclusive stories, and frequently lends her voice to narrate documentaries and audiobooks that celebrate accomplishments from the past and present.

Alfre Woodard

Alfre Woodard is a highly respected actress with a long and successful career, known for powerful performances in films like ‘Clemency’ and ’12 Years a Slave’, and on TV shows such as ‘Luke Cage’ and ‘Desperate Housewives’. She’s won several Emmy Awards for her work in both dramatic series and limited-run programs. Beyond acting, Woodard supports independent filmmakers, guides up-and-coming artists, and actively participates in both political activism and programs that promote arts education.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor has received critical acclaim for her role in ‘King Richard’ and is known for her powerful performances in films like ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ and the series ‘Lovecraft Country’. A trained stage actress, she frequently returns to theater work between film and television projects. She’s equally comfortable in period pieces and modern thrillers, and also dedicates her time to supporting programs that promote reading and community involvement.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer started her career with a memorable role in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ and has since starred in films like ‘Nope’ and the TV series ‘Scream Queens’. Beyond acting, she’s a host, having led the show ‘Password’, and is dedicated to supporting up-and-coming artists through her digital projects. Palmer is also a musician and voice actor, lending her talents to popular animated family shows. Additionally, she’s a passionate advocate for fairness in the workplace and helping young people understand the media.

Zendaya

Zendaya has received major awards for her performance in ‘Euphoria’ and is also known for her roles in films like ‘Dune’ and the ‘Spider-Man’ series, as well as critically acclaimed dramas. Beyond acting, she’s a producer who champions young filmmakers and tackles current social topics. She also uses her platform to support education and provide aid during disasters through partnerships with fashion brands and humanitarian organizations.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae is the creator and star of the acclaimed series ‘Insecure’ and has also appeared in films like ‘The Photograph’ and ‘Barbie’. Through her company, Hoorae, she’s dedicated to supporting a wider range of voices in storytelling. Beyond acting, Rae develops TV shows – from comedies to dramas and reality series – and invests in music and podcasts. She actively partners with organizations that offer financial support and training to creators from underrepresented backgrounds.

Teyonah Parris

Teyonah Parris first gained recognition in the film ‘Chi-Raq’ and further established herself with ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’. She’s now a familiar face in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in both ‘WandaVision’ and ‘The Marvels’. Parris is versatile, moving seamlessly between smaller, independent films and big-budget productions. She also dedicates her time to helping young women pursue careers in film and media.

Dominique Fishback

Dominique Fishback has received praise for her work in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ and has been a leading actress in the series ‘The Deuce’ and ‘Swarm’. She also appeared in the blockbuster film ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’, showing her ability to succeed in large-scale franchise movies. Before becoming an actress, Fishback was a spoken-word artist and continues to value writing, incorporating it into her work. She’s also dedicated to helping young people in New York through arts education programs.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid is an actress known for her roles in popular shows and movies like ‘A Wrinkle in Time’, ‘Euphoria’, and ‘The Last of Us’. Beyond acting, she’s also a producer and created a scholarship to help students. Reid often works with directors on projects focused on young adult themes and different genres. She’s also passionate about encouraging girls to pursue interests in science, technology, engineering, math, and the arts.

Nia Long

Nia Long is a well-known actress with iconic roles in films like ‘Boyz n the Hood’ and ‘The Best Man,’ and on TV shows such as ‘Third Watch’ and ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.’ She continues to star in exciting thrillers and dramas on streaming services. Beyond acting, Long also produces projects that focus on stories about Black families and successful women. She’s also dedicated to helping young actors successfully make the leap to more mature roles through mentorship programs.

Sanaa Lathan

Sanaa Lathan is well-known for her role in ‘Love & Basketball’ and has also starred in films like ‘The Best Man’ and ‘Alien vs. Predator’. More recently, she directed the movie ‘On the Come Up’. When she’s not working on screen, Lathan also does voice work for animated projects and performs on stage. She’s a dedicated supporter of programs that promote reading and arts education in cities.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union is known for her roles in popular films and shows like ‘Bring It On’ and ‘Being Mary Jane,’ as well as the thriller ‘Breaking.’ Beyond acting, she co-founded a production company dedicated to creating diverse and inclusive stories for families. She’s also a successful author and a passionate advocate, speaking out for survivors of trauma and supporting LGBTQ+ youth. Union actively partners with organizations working to improve healthcare and educational opportunities for all.

Wunmi Mosaku

Wunmi Mosaku is a celebrated actress who has received awards for her role in ‘Damilola, Our Loved Boy’ and gained recognition internationally for ‘His House’. She’s also appeared in popular television series like ‘Lovecraft Country’, ‘Loki’, and ‘We Own This City’. A graduate of a top UK drama school, Mosaku continues to work in theatre and is dedicated to helping more people from diverse backgrounds enter the British film and television industry.

Adepero Oduye

Adepero Oduye first gained recognition in the film ‘Pariah’ and has since appeared in notable projects like ’12 Years a Slave’, ‘Widows’, and ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. Beyond acting, she’s a filmmaker, writing and directing short films shown at festivals around the world. She’s also committed to supporting diverse voices, leading workshops that help develop stories from underrepresented groups and often working with independent filmmakers on projects focused on compelling characters.

Lashana Lynch

Lashana Lynch has quickly become a prominent actress, starring in the recent film adaptation of ‘Matilda the Musical’ and appearing in the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’. She’s also known for her roles in ‘The Woman King’ and ‘Captain Marvel’. With a background in UK theater, Lynch is passionate about supporting young actors and often discusses the hard work and training involved in performing physically demanding roles.

Florence Kasumba

Florence Kasumba is a well-known actress, famous for playing a member of the Dora Milaje in the ‘Black Panther’ films and appearing in ‘Captain America: Civil War’ and ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. She’s also a frequent performer in European television and theater, including projects in German. Beyond acting, Kasumba provides voice work for animated shows and video games, and actively encourages partnerships between creative professionals in Africa and Europe.

Nomzamo Mbatha

Nomzamo Mbatha first became well-known in South Africa for her role in the TV series ‘Isibaya’ and later gained international recognition in ‘Coming 2 America’. She also works as a Goodwill Ambassador for the UN Refugee Agency, dedicating her efforts to helping refugees. Beyond acting, Mbatha started a scholarship program to support students in South Africa and is now producing content that shares African stories with the world.

Sophie Wilde

Sophie Wilde quickly became well-known after starring in the popular horror film ‘Talk to Me’. Before that, she acted in Australian TV dramas and series available on streaming services. She received her training at a top performing arts school in Sydney and is now working on international projects that tell stories about communities living outside their homeland.

Zoë Kravitz

Zoë Kravitz is a talented actress known for her roles in popular shows like ‘Big Little Lies’ and ‘High Fidelity’, as well as the film ‘The Batman’. Beyond acting, she’s also a producer, creating her own film and TV projects. She’s a musician and works with fashion brands on creative projects, and is now moving into directing after announcing her first feature film, which has generated a lot of excitement in the industry.

Share your favorite performances and any names you think should be added in the comments.

2025-11-12 12:49